The veteran tight end tell 106.7 The Fan’s Grant Paulsen he can make an impact as soon as next Sunday when the Redskins travel to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cooley has been out of football since being released in late August. Washington re-signed him after starter Fred Davis tore his Achilles’ tendon in Sunday’s loss to the New York Giants.

Cooley says he turned down a number of offers from other teams — some for starting jobs — following his release in Washington. However, he made up his mind that he would only play football again if it was for the Redskins.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

The Washington Redskins and Chris Cooley have agreed to a terms on a contract that would enable him to rejoin the team.

However, Davis’ torn left Achilles swung open the doors for Cooley’s return. Washington wasted little time in reaching out to the free agent. Cooley was contacted Sunday evening, just hours after the team lost to the New York Giants.

Just got off phone w/ Chris Cooley. He's obviously very excited to have re-signed with the #Redskins. Thinks he can help as soon as Sunday.

Cooley has been contacted by a number of teams since his release in August, but opted to wait for the ideal opportunity to present itself. He has repeatedly said that he was in no hurry to return and would only do so if the fit was right.

The fan favorite feels he can still be a major contributor and wants to start. Davis’ injury may afford him that opportunity. Currently, Logan Paulsen and converted wide receiver Niles Paul are the only tight ends on the roster.

Cooley passed a physical on Monday and officially signed with the Redskins.

Listen here to the Chris Cooley Conference Call with the DC media from a few minutes ago.